Quotes

''We're the Eastern Conference champions until we're not the Eastern Conference champions - that's how I look at it. If Orlando's going to accomplish anything, they're going to have to come through us.'' - Anthony Mason, New York Knicks forward.

''I came back to win a championship. That's my purpose. I didn't do it just go through the motions. I'm here and I'm ready for the playoffs.'' - Michael Jordan, Chicago Bulls guard.

''Until they get beat, the Bulls are the team. They've won three championships with Michael Jordan and they're a very dangerous team.'' Larry Brown, Indiana Pacers coach.

''We've been earmarked as the best team ever - and our first playoff win will be our first.'' - John Gabriel, Magic vice president.

''I don't think the Magic will go all the way, but if they get past the first round, those couple of wins will give them confidence in the next round.'' - Mike Elby, Magic fan, Winter Springs.

''Talent-wise, I don't think there's any question. . . They're [the Magic] so strong. They have tow of the top four players in the two top positions in the league.'' - George Karl, Sonics coach.

''Having home court certainly enhances our chances. As long as we win every home game throughout the playoffs, we'll get to the Finals.'' - Richie Adubato, Magic assistant coach.

''There's nothing like an upset over a No. 1 see - all we have to do is look what Denver did last year, beating Seattle. . . We hope we can go in and steal one.'' - Chris Ford, Celtics coach.

''I like Orlando a lot. It would definitely be an upset if they got beat early. But they're not going to get swept again, not with the homecourt advantage.'' - Chris Webber, Bullets.

''Since Michael Jordan came back, it took the pressure off us and who people want to see. It gives us an advantage. Everybody won't be watching us . . . '' - Anfernee Hardaway, Magic.

''A lot has come to them [the Magic] in a real short time. That can be dangerous, but they have proven they are the best in the East. Who knows what might happen.'' - Sean Elliott, Spurs.

''Based on the season, the Magic have to be the favorite. I don't think their lack of experience has much to do with it. I hope they do well.'' - Scott Skiles, Bullets.

''[Indiana, New York, Chicago] are so much more battle-tested than we are. They have to be the favorites, along with us, as teams that have the potential to move on.'' - Brian Hill, Magic coach.

''I think the Magic will beat Boston, and then it will be a joyous thing to watch Michael Jordan take it on the chin.'' - Mary Ainsworth, Magic fan, Winter Park.

''The Magic are the team to beat. They've got the best record in the conference. . . They're 39-2 at home, so they can lose all their road games if they want to.'' - Greg Kite, Pacers.

''New York, New York, New York. Orlando has a very good team, but New York has the know-how. Orlando's goal should be to get out of the first or second round.'' - John Lucas, 76ers coach.